Crackling Cornbread

Fried pork cracklings add a savory flavor to this spicy cornbread.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 55 mins
• Calories: 254 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon shortening
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
• 1 cup pork cracklings (fried pork skins)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat an oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Stir together the cornmeal, salt, and baking soda in a bowl; set aside. Place the shortening into a 9 inch cast iron skillet, and place into the oven until the skillet is hot and the shortening has melted.

Step 2

Bring some water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add the pork cracklings and boil until tender, 5 to 8 minutes. Once tender, drain, and reserve. Meanwhile, beat the egg in a bowl along with the jalapeno pepper and buttermilk; stir in the cracklings. Stir in the cornmeal mixture until moistened, then pour the batter into the preheated skillet.

Step 3

Bake in the preheated oven until the top of the cornbread is brown, and it feels firm to the touch, 30 to 40 minutes. Turn out onto a serving plate and cut into wedges; serve immediately.